Neutron diffraction is a powerful technique used to determine the atomic and/or magnetic structure of a material by observing the scattering patterns of neutrons when they pass through a sample. Unlike X-ray diffraction, neutron diffraction is particularly sensitive to light atoms and can provide detailed information about magnetic ordering and hydrogen positions in complex structures.

Neutron Diffraction

Powerful technique

Atomic structure refers to the arrangement of subatomic particles—protons, neutrons, and electrons—within an atom, which determines its chemical properties and behavior. Understanding atomic structure is fundamental to fields like chemistry and physics, as it explains the periodic table, bonding, and the nature of matter itself.

Atomic Structure

Magnetic Structure

Scattering patterns

Light atoms

Detailed Information

Magnetic ordering refers to the arrangement of magnetic moments in a material, leading to phenomena such as ferromagnetism, antiferromagnetism, and ferrimagnetism. The specific type of ordering depends on the interactions between magnetic moments and the temperature, which can lead to various magnetic phases with distinct properties.

Magnetic Ordering

Hydrogen positions

Complex structures are intricate arrangements of interconnected components that exhibit emergent properties not present in individual elements. They are studied across various disciplines to understand how these systems function, adapt, and evolve over time.

Complex Structures

X-ray diffraction is a powerful technique used to determine the atomic and molecular structure of a crystal by measuring the angles and intensities of X-rays scattered by the crystal lattice. This method provides detailed information about the arrangement of atoms within the crystal, which is critical for understanding material properties and designing new materials.

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